2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Morrison Foerster

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

Lightheartedness about its nickname aside, MoFo is seriously a legal heavyweight and a desirable landing spot for associates. While hiring often focuses on those from elite law schools, academic credentials, and experience, the firm wants a diverse range of people who will fit well in its collegial, supportive office environment. Partners treat associates like teammates and support their professional development, and they are known to be generous with their time. Where formal training is lacking, partner and senior associate mentors offer meaningful feedback and support. Lateral hires, however, report that more is needed for them to feel fully integrated into the firm. Assignments run the gamut from basic to sophisticated, though they are generally commensurate with an associate’s experience. Workflow seems to be administered fairly through a work coordinator, but some partners prefer giving assignments to associates with whom they have previously worked. Associates are responsible for a reasonable 1,800 hours of billable time, while 150 additional hours in pro bono and DEI work are needed to be bonus-eligible. Notably, MoFo matches market rates for compensation. Despite the firm’s proximity to the global technology hub of Silicon Valley, tech at the firm is outdated and problematic. Fortunately, improvements are on the horizon. Counseling, exercise programs, and other resources make associates feel positive about the firm’s wellness efforts. Credit for pro bono hours is unlimited. Diversity efforts are a firm priority, as shown by its affinity groups, programming, and related work that counts as billable. Non-equity partner tracks, in-house opportunities, and government work give associates promising career prospects.

THE FIRM'S PERSPECTIVE

MoFo is invested in your success.

At MoFo, we don’t just hire talent; we invest in it.

• Our commitment to your success starts with our Ready to Launch and Wetmore Bridge Program initiatives, designed to bridge the gap between law school and practice with tailored coaching, management skills workshops, and professional development sessions.
• The MyMoFo success framework provides clear performance expectations, empowering associates to manage their career progression effectively.
• With MoFo Next, our center for career advancement, we provide lifelong career support, from exploring diverse career paths to leveraging client relationships for secondments and full-time opportunities.
• And with our market-leading Associate Bonus Program, you’re rewarded not just for billable hours but also for pro bono, diversity and inclusion, and business development contributions.

MoFo is driven by excellence, collaboration, and innovation, offering unparalleled opportunities to thrive professionally while working on cutting-edge matters with exceptional colleagues. Our values of inclusion, career development, and service set us apart, making MoFo not just a firm to join but a community where you’ll build a future that is uniquely yours.